Biased Much?

A few days ago, a friend accused me of being biased when it comes to African literature. He said I'd never use words like "authentic," "original," or "unique" to describe a non-African book or writer. I just smiled and changed the topic.

Since then, it’s been on my mind. So, I started questioning this line of thought, as my coach would suggest. Come to think of it, aren’t we all biased?

I have a heart that beats for good literature. I love books, whether poetry or novels. But I’m also Nigerian, and what feels authentic to me is something I can deeply relate to—something that doesn’t feel far-fetched but carries a sense of originality for me.

Why is this? You see, our reality shapes our perception of things. If I live in an unfair reality, I will likely see life as unfair. Whatever you experience often feels more significant than something that is just "real enough" to happen.

A story becomes more original, more real, more authentic when it stems from a place of firsthand experience. I love African novels because they reflect a reality I interact with. I find it authentic when Chimamanda writes about something I’ve experienced. Nevertheless, I read all kinds of books. Foreign books help expand my imagination and bring excitement.

Dearest reader, don’t you think we are all biased? As our experiences shape how we view the world.

@favvy_Okwans🖤